Calls for AFL’s ‘out of date’ illicit drug policy to be overhauled

Matthew Richardson says the AFL’s illicit drugs policy is “out of date” and should be overhauled.

And Jimmy Bartel says he agrees.

The issue has flared up after Western Bulldogs star Bailey Smith apologised for “indulging in behaviours in late 2021 of which I am deeply ashamed” as his mental health “dramatically deteriorated” after last year’s grand final.

The AFL’s integrity unit is investigating.

It’s led to debate about whether the league’s illicit drugs policy is effective.

Hawthorn president Jeff Kennett has called for an even-stricter policy, pushing for two-year bans without pay.

Others have called for it be scrapped.

Speaking on 3AW Football, Richardson said so much had changed since the illicit drugs policy was implemented in 2005.

“Seriously, in that time, the use of illicit drugs has exploded,” Richardson said on 3AW.

“You’ve got your head in the sand if you don’t know that.

“Go out to a pub this afternoon and you walk into any toilet, and I guarantee you there will be people in there doing illicit substances.

“This policy is out of date, clearly.”

Press PLAY below to hear the discussion on 3AW Football

(Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)